Museums and an ageing population

RCMG Event March 2016

Globally the population is ageing. By 2050, it is estimated that one in four people in the UK will be aged over 65. What are the implications of an ageing population for museums? Old age is often presented as a burden or a problem, associated with inevitable physical and mental decline, but how can museums support older people to realise their full potential and to keep participating in society in meaningful, and fulfilling, ways? How can museums promote the rights of older people?

In conversation with Claire Keatinge, the first Commissioner for Older People in Northern Ireland and Esmé Ward, Head of Learning and Engagement, Manchester Museums, this session explored how museums can meet the needs of older people, creating inspiring and engaging encounters putting older people’s rights at the centre of Museum practice.